How russia tries to conquer Africa through propaganda
The kremlin’s disinformation machine systematically operates in the African information space, using historical traumas, distrust of the West, and cultural features to promote its own geopolitical interests.
▫️ As noted by the TruthAfrica project – a large international initiative to counter disinformation – russia builds an alternative picture of the world with its fakes and manipulations.
▫️ The main kremlin narratives in Africa are repeated from country to country: the West is the “neocolonizer,” and russia is the “defender of traditional values.”
▫️ The kremlin also exploits cultural and religious themes, presenting itself as a “moral ally” in contrast to the “decadent West.”
▫️ One of the key tools for russia has become cartoons. Through bright animations that are easily perceived by children and youth, Russia promotes messages about the “evil France” or glorifies the Wagner PMC, trying to justify russia’s military presence in Africa.
Through all these methods, the kremlin seeks to influence African societies, form alliances beneficial to moscow, and undermine democratic processes worldwide. Understanding this tactic is the first step to neutralizing it.
